A: Vitamin D is very important for bone health. A recent study showed that being obese can lower vitamin D levels but taking more vitamin D did not reduce obesity. So look for other reasons for weight gain rather than Vitamin D levels though be sure to maintain good Vitamin D levels for bone health. Vitamin D supplements may be helpful but it is also important to spend 15 minutes or so in the sun each day if possible since that can be very helpful to boost Vitamin D levels. And while outside, don't just stand there--get your sunshine while doing some walking. That will help burn calories and will contribute to weight loss.

Q: What foods are good to boost your metabolism?

A: I do not believe in relying on a specific type of food to boost metabolism. More important, people should try to increase their metabolism by increasing physical activity. The muscles of the body are the engines that burn calories and using them will burn more calories.

Q: Are there specific fruits I should avoid if I am trying to lose weight?

A: Fruits can be a double-edged sword in a weight loss diet. Though they contain many healthy nutrients they can are often very high in sugars. Therefore eating too much fruit can make it difficult to lose weight and may even lead to weight gain. For example, a banana has 100 calories and about 27 g of carbs. An apple has about 115 calories and 30 g of carbs. Eating just 2 of these a day would provide more than 100 g of carbs. You can do the math but it becomes difficult to lose weight if the number of carbs start creeping over 100 per day. A well-balanced diet with carbs, protein, and fat is a more sensible approach for most people.

The Skinny on Healthy Eating

Eat Healthy with These Recipes

Many people make New Year's resolutions to get in shape and become healthier -- but the decision to become healthy starts with what you choose to eat. Use these great heart healthy, gluten-free and low cholesterol recipes to help you eat your way through a healthier 2014.

Featured Heart Healthy Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

This meal is generally lightly seasoned, which allows each diner to add condiments to individual taste.

Featured Low Cholesterol Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Whether you’re a full-time vegetarian or simply enjoy a meatless meal now and then, look for recipes that are full of flavor and low in fat. Because strict vegetarian meals don’t contain animal foods, they’re cholesterol-free.

The Johns Hopkins Digestive Weight Loss Center

If you struggle with your weight, you aren't alone. More than two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese and many have medical conditions that affect their weight. Our team of weight loss specialists can provide you with the information and training you need to reach your goals and enjoy a lifetime of healthy weight.